Child Custody and Parenting Time

Child custody disputes can be an emotionally draining experience for all parties, especially children. Based in Indianapolis, Indiana, the divorce and family law attorneys at Broyles Kight & Ricafort have considerable experience in helping families through these difficult situations. If you have a dispute regarding child custody, their experienced attorneys can help you achieve the best result for you and your children.

Child Custody: In Indiana, custody of a child is determined by the “best interests” standard. The court must determine whether it would be in a child’s best interests to have his mother, his father, or both parents as his custodians.

There are two types of custody under Indiana law: legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody gives a parent the right to make decisions regarding a child’s education, medical care, and religious upbringing. Physical custody defines where the child resides on a regular basis. Parents can share legal and physical custody of a child (referred to as “joint custody”), or one parent can be deemed to be the “legal custodian” or the “primary physical custodian,” with the other parent receiving the right to visit with the child.

Parenting time: Our legislature has adopted the “Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines,” which are designed to standardize the “parenting time” or visitation rights of non-custodial parents in Indiana. The Parenting Time Guidelines represent the minimum amount of time that a parent should have with his child on a regular basis, and also discuss parenting time during holidays. The Guidelines are designed to encourage frequent and meaningful contact between parents and children. There is a presumption that the Guidelines apply in all custody disputes, but a court may deviate from the Guidelines if necessary and appropriate.

Contact us today to learn more about child custody and parenting time post-divorce in Central Indiana!

The divorce and family law attorneys at Broyles Kight & Ricafort, P.C. recognize that the emotional and financial costs of child custody disputes can be enormous. We strive to achieve the best result possible for you and your children while working to minimize the expense. Although the best results are often achieved through informal settlement negotiations or mediation sessions with a third party, we are prepared to vigorously advocate your case at trial. To schedule a consultation with one of BKR’s experienced family law attorneys in Indianapolis, Indiana, call 317-571-3601.